by Amy Brandt | Jun 28, 2017 | Ask Amy
I’m performing in a contemporary ballet piece for the first time and every rehearsal feels like I’ve never danced a day in my life. Help! —Simone When I was a young corps member, I was cast in Alonzo King’s MAP. I was so excited—until I...
by Amy Brandt | Jun 21, 2017 | Ask Amy, Health & Body, Nutrition
How can I wean myself off my coffee fix without experiencing headaches and crankiness that will disrupt my rehearsal process? —Lauryn Trust me, I know the feeling—I love my morning coffee! However, caffeine is a habit-forming stimulant. Drinking excessive amounts,...
by Amy Brandt | Mar 9, 2017 | Audition Advice, Training
I’m often cut from the final round of auditions. Is there a polite way to follow up with directors and ask them for feedback? —Megan When it comes to seeking feedback from directors, I think it depends on the situation and the method of communication. If...
by Grace-Anne Powers | Feb 23, 2017 | Audition Advice
I felt shattered. Cut from the audition at barre. I was 24 years old and had been dancing professionally for eight years already. I’d been very fortunate in my career so far, and although I was no stranger to rejections, this was a first. I thought: I must not...
by Amy Brandt | Feb 23, 2017 | Ask Amy, Audition Advice
How do you “perform” at auditions without being obnoxious? —Mikayla Auditions are no place to hide or act self-consciously—but there’s a fine line between being assertive and being aggressive. Focus on keeping your movements lush without...
by Amy Brandt | Feb 14, 2017 | Ask Amy, Training
I have a terrible time with complex music. Are there any tricks for improving musicality? —Claire Throughout my career, I performed to difficult, dissonant scores. Often, I’d struggle to keep counts straight during the early rehearsal process because it’s...
by Amy Brandt | Nov 30, 2016 | Ask Amy, Everything Nutcracker, Health & Body, Wellness
I always get sick during Nutcracker. Help! —Emily Long days, late nights, chilly weather and overworked bodies make the perfect recipe for disaster during Nutcracker season. I’ll never forget burning up with a fever backstage in my Arabian costume, or the time...
by Julie Kent | Nov 22, 2016 | Training, Wellness
When I was about 10, I auditioned for New York City Ballet, to be in their Harlequinade. I got to the final round and then wasn’t selected. Of course I was disappointed, but my mother just said, “Julie, your time will come.” And I think understanding...